Think Denver is just about the Rockies? Think again. From kayaking in the city to hiking ancient trails, these 21 outdoor adventures will show you a wilder side of the Mile High City.
1. Hike Red Rocks Park
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Not just for concerts, Red Rocks is a natural playground. Hit the trails early to beat the heat and the crowds, and you’ll see why locals love it.
2. Bike the Cherry Creek Trail
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Strap on your helmet and pedal through the heart of Denver on the Cherry Creek Trail. It’s smooth riding and perfect for catching sights without a car window in the way.
3. Fish at Sloan’s Lake
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Drop a line in Sloan’s Lake. It’s a peaceful way to spend a morning, and you might just reel in your dinner.
4. Climb the Walls at Denver Bouldering Club
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Whether you’re a greenhorn or a seasoned climber, the Denver Bouldering Club has routes for you. It’s a fine way to test your grit.
5. Run the Steps of the Colorado State Capitol
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Feel the burn running the steps of the State Capitol. Count ’em—there are exactly 99, representing the 99 steps to heaven.
6. Kayak Confluence Park
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Where the Platte River and Cherry Creek meet, Confluence Park offers some of the best urban kayaking. It’s a splashin’ good time.
7. Discover Dinosaur Ridge
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Walk where the dinosaurs did at Dinosaur Ridge. It’s a fossil hunter’s dream right outside your backdoor.
8. Stroll the Botanic Gardens
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The Denver Botanic Gardens ain’t just pretty flowers. They host summer concerts and more under the stars.
9. Explore the Wild at Rocky Mountain Arsenal
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Get up close with bison and eagles at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a slice of the wild West right in the city.
10. Sip and Savor at a Local Brewery
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Denver’s known for its craft beer. Take a brewery tour, and taste the local flavors that make this city a beer lover’s haven.
11. Watch a Sunset at Cheesman Park
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Cheesman Park might have a spooky past, but it’s also got one of the best sunset views in town.
12. Ride Horseback in the Foothills
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Nothing says Colorado like horseback riding in the foothills. It’s as close as you’ll get to feeling like a cowboy without leaving the city.
13. Golf at City Park
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Tee off at City Park, where the skyline views are as impressive as the fairways.
14. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Chatfield Reservoir
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Stand-up paddleboarding at Chatfield Reservoir is a fine way to cool off and enjoy some mountain views.
15. Tour the Mint
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Ever wonder where your coins come from? Tour the Denver Mint and find out. It’s more fascinating than you might think.
16. Hunt for Street Art in RiNo
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The RiNo Art District is bursting with colorful street art. It’s a gallery open 24/7, and free to boot.
17. Attend a Rodeo at the National Western Stock Show
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Come January, the National Western Stock Show is the place to be for rodeo action, cattle shows, and a real cowboy market.
18. Soak in a Hot Spring
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Drive a bit out of town to soak in natural hot springs. It’s the best way to unwind after a day of Denver adventures.
19. Zip Line Over the Rockies
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For the thrill-seekers, zip lining over the Rockies offers breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush like no other.
20. Picnic at Washington Park
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Grab some grub and enjoy a picnic at Washington Park. It’s a favorite local spot for a lazy afternoon.
21. Experience the Haunted History Tour
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For a taste of the eerie, take a haunted history tour of Denver’s oldest neighborhoods. It’s a spooky good time.
Y’all Come Back Now!
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There ya have it—21 ways to kick up your heels and enjoy Denver like you’re part of the landscape. Whether you’re here for a spell or just passin’ through, these experiences will make you feel right at home. Happy trails!
Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops
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Discover chilling tales from America’s spookiest roads, complete with ghostly figures and eerie phenomena, in this thrilling guide to paranormal hotspots—perfect for adventure seekers and ghost enthusiasts. Ready for a supernatural road trip? Ghost Roads of America: 12 Haunted Highways with Tales of Terror and Creepy Rest Stops
18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid
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American cities dazzle with culture and history, yet rising crime rates demand cautious exploration. This guide ensures you stay informed and safe. 18 High-Crime Cities in the US You Should Avoid
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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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